Bring the family to Downtown Wabash, Indiana for the ‘greatest spectacle in candy’ on Miami Street, presented by Downtown Wabash, Inc., Wabash Trucking and Metal Source.
Returning for its 6th year, Wabash Trucking will bring one of its roll-off trucks to dump the candy for costumed trick-or-treaters. Candy will cascade to Miami St. promptly at 5 p.m. and trick-or-treaters can collect their candy until 7 p.m. Come out in costume and join the costume contest in the parking lot of Oswalt-Thomas located at 160 W. Canal Street. There will be 10 categories to enter to win spooktacular prizes! A bounce house and other ghostly vendors can be found at the Lighthouse Mission parking lot across the street.
In the case of rain or inclement weather, Trick-or-Treat Extravaganza will be held on Sunday, Oct. 27 from 2-4 p.m. in Downtown Wabash, Indiana.
The Downtown Wabash Trick-or-Treat Extravaganza is presented by Downtown Wabash, Inc., Wabash Trucking and Metal Source. Additional support comes from Beacon Credit Union and event partner Bachelor Creek Church.
The Downtown Wabash Trick-or-Treat Extravaganza is made possible by Downtown Wabash, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to a downtown district that is vibrant every day and night.
Behind the scenes of our lively downtown is a group of innovative visionaries dedicated to economic revitalization and placemaking efforts. Meet our dynamic board of directors who regularly collaborate to shape the future of our downtown community. From advocating for the vibrancy of our streets to ensuring optimization of financial resources, they are essential to upholding our organization’s mission. Each member serves on committees devoted to strategizing initiatives, securing vital grants, and championing for our cherished local businesses, amenities and services.
The Downtown Wabash, Inc. board of directors is comprised of essential community leaders, business owners and influential downtown advocates. The 2024 board gained two new members who diversify the organization’s leadership in age, industry and qualifications. Incoming board members include Bob Lundquist, Owner of Lundquist Appraisals & Real Estate and Isaias Tactuk, Gebhart Holdings General Manager of Hospitality.
Incoming 2024 Downtown Wabash, Inc. board members, Isaias Tactuk and Bob Lundquist
“Our incoming board members are committed to upholding our role as a Main Street America organization, championing revitalization efforts and preserving the heritage of our downtown district” Downtown Wabash, Inc. Board President Neil Bever said. “They bring diverse perspectives to effectively navigate the complexities of our community while staying true to our national mission.”
Tactuk and Lundquist, alongside returning board members, will serve on one of our four committees following the Main Street Approach™. According to Main Street America, the approach is a “time-tested framework for community-driven, comprehensive revitalization” with four points within the framework. The framework is centered around Transformation Strategies, which “articulate focused, deliberate paths to revitalizing or strengthening a downtown or commercial district’s economy.”
Downtown Wabash, Inc. Board of Directors strategize initiatives for the nonprofit organization.
Downtown Wabash, Inc., a Nationally Accredited Main Street organization in Northeast Indiana, holds four, volunteer-based committees with annual work plans, aligning our organization’s programs, services and revitalization efforts to the Transformation Strategy. The Transformation Strategy focuses on Arts and Culture, including the Wabash Cultural District. Committees include the Design Committee, Economic Vitality Committee, Organization Committee and Promotion Committee. Members of each prospective committee are dedicated to upholding its primary purpose:
ECONOMIC VITALITY focuses on capital, incentives and other economic and financial tools to assist new and existing businesses, catalyze property development and create a supportive environment for entrepreneurs and innovators that drive local economies.
DESIGN supports a community’s transformation by enhancing the physical and visual assets that set the commercial district apart.
ORGANIZATION involves creating a strong foundation for sustainable revitalization effort, including cultivating partnerships, community involvement and resources for the district.
PROMOTION positions the downtown as the center of the community and hub of economic activity, while creating a positive image that showcases a community’s unique characteristics.
Our organization’s diverse board of directors is instrumental in defining our direction. Their tireless efforts behind the scenes ensure we stay on track to achieve our vision, for which we are immensely grateful.
“As the new Executive Director, I am excited to work alongside our exceptional board of directors in moving this organization forward in our efforts to enhance our downtown district,” says Kristen Petruniw, Downtown Wabash, Inc. Executive Director. “Their collective wisdom and strategic insight bring opportunities for collaboration and growth for our community. I look forward to working together toward our vision of creating a vibrant downtown district both day and night.”
Please give a warm welcome to our newest board members, and extend gratitude to our returning board members and ex-officio members.
Neil Bever, President, Hoosier Chiropractic Neil is in his third year on the board and chairs the Organization Committee. He represents the services industry downtown and champion’s our board initiatives.
Amanda Lopez, Vice President, Transform Consulting Group Amanda, former 2023 board president, is in her fifth year on the board. She provides expertise in organizational management and strategic planning.
Erika White, Treasurer, Crossroads Bank Erika is in her second year as a board member and serves as the financial expert ensuring optimization of our organization’s resources.
Kara Fulmer, Secretary, Honeywell Arts & Entertainment Kara is in her fourth year on the board and brings extensive nonprofit and fundraising knowledge to the Organization Committee.
Kelli Winer, Kelli Winer Design Kelli is in her third year and it is no surprise she serves on the Design Committee with her experience in design and small business management.
Jordan Tandy, Downs, Tandy & Petruniw Jordan is in his sixth year on the board. He is chairing the Design Committee with past years of Design Committee experience and brings legal expertise to the organization.
Noah Roberts, Ford Meter Box Co. Noah is in his second year on the board utilizing his business development skills as a community champion.
Shane Waters, Arc Light Media Shane is serving his second year on the board of directors. He chairs the Promotion Committee bringing his unique knowledge of digital marketing and passion for local history.
Cathy Gatchel, Honeywell Arts & Entertainment Cathy is returning for her second year on the board and serves on the Promotion Committee. Cathy brings a wealth of fundraising and community knowledge.
Bob Lundquist, Lundquist Appraisals & Real Estate Bob is entering his first year on the board and is stepping into the role of Economic Vitality Committee chair.
Isaias Tactuk, Gebhard Holdings Isaias is entering his first year on the board and is enthusiastic about offering the board a downtown restaurant’s perspective.
Mayor Scott Long, City of Wabash, Ex-Officio Mayor Long is a member of the Economic Vitality Committee and shares relevant information regarding partnerships with the City of Wabash.
Tenille Zartman, Grow Wabash County, Ex-Officio Tenille is entering her first year serving on the Economic Vitality Committee and is a champion for economic development projects.
Christine Flohr, Visit Wabash County, Ex-Officio Christine serves on the Design Committee and partners with tourism efforts in Downtown Wabash.
In the scenic town of Wabash, Indiana, a remarkable story unfolds, one that showcases the resilience and entrepreneurial spirit of the Gebhart family. At its heart is Gebhart Holdings, with a portfolio of companies that have not only transformed the town’s economic landscape but have also contributed significantly to its growth.
The tale begins in 2000 when Thomas Gebhart, a seasoned professional in the scrap metal industry, founded the flagship company of Gebhart Holdings—Metal Source. With a focus on zinc dross milling, the company started its journey under Thomas’s able leadership. However, fate took an unexpected turn when Thomas passed away in 2002. In the face of adversity, the reins of Metal Source were taken up by Thomas’s son, Benjamin Gebhart. Under his leadership, Metal Source underwent a transformative shift in 2003, pivoting towards the aluminum recycling industry—a move that would lay the foundation for the company’s future success.
By 2006, Metal Source had outgrown its initial location, prompting a strategic relocation to its present site on Wabash Street in Wabash, Indiana. The company’s relentless pursuit of excellence led to substantial expansion in 2011, tripling the size of its facility and enabling it to diversify its product lines. Aside from its flagship location in Wabash, today Metal Source is also located in Peru, Marion, Huntington, Decatur, Bedford and Mitchell, Indiana.
In 2014, Gebhart Holdings emerged as the parent company to Metal Source. This transformation was born out of the realization that diversification was crucial, especially in the volatile scrap recycling industry. Under the leadership of CEO Ben Gebhart, the Gebhart family set out to build a robust portfolio of businesses.
The year 2016 was a pivotal one for Gebhart Holdings, with Ben Gebhart spearheading a series of initiatives. Recognizing the need for a comprehensive logistics solution, Wabash Trucking was established, quickly growing to boast a fleet of over 50 trucks. Ben’s frustration with the immediate availability of steel products led to the birth of Wabash Steel Supply, a steel and industrial supply company that addresses industry needs with efficiency and reliability.
Today, Gebhart Holdings proudly stands as the parent company to a diverse family of enterprises, each contributing to the vibrant tapestry of Wabash’s business community. From Metal Source to Wabash Trucking, Wabash Steel Supply, Wabash Motor Company, Splash and Dash Car Wash, and Market Street Grill, the Gebhart family’s legacy continues to thrive.
Introducing The Ivy Room, Gebhart Holdings’ Newest Addition
Located above Market Street Grill in Downtown Wabash, Indiana, The Ivy Room is an upscale private event venue. Freshly renovated by Gebhart Holdings, this space made its public debut in the fall of 2023. The Ivy Room can accommodate up to 190 guests and is perfect to book for events such as Christmas parties, wedding receptions, birthday parties, retirement parties, reunions, board meetings and more.
Parties will have access to A/V equipment including 3, 85-inch Samsung HDTV’s, 110-inch projector screen, and a state-of-the-art Klipsch surround sound speaker system, three balconies that include a table for 4 each, a fully customizable layout and a customizable menu to fit your parties’ needs.
The Ivy Room does not charge a room rental fee, but instead offers three different tiers of food options (bronze, silver, and gold) for both lunch and dinner, as well as an appetizer and dessert menu. (Please note that there is a guest minimum to book The Ivy Room. The minimum for lunch is 15 guests and the minimum for dinner is 25 guests.) Room menus are available on msgrill.com under ‘private events’. The menus can be used as a guide, but if your party would like something not on these menus, Market Street Grill will do their best to accommodate.
Event inquiries can be submitted online or by calling the restaurant at (260) 563-7779.
With over 350 employees, Gebhart Holdings remains committed to its growth trajectory. As Gebhart Holdings continues to evolve and expand, it stands as a shining example of the entrepreneurial spirit that defines Wabash, Indiana—a spirit that refuses to be bound by limitations and instead thrives on the promise of a brighter tomorrow.
A special thank you to Gebhart Holdings for their longstanding support in helping fulfill the mission of Downtown Wabash, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to a vibrant downtown district every day and night.
The Trick-or-Treat Extravaganza is Happening on October 28 from 5-7 p.m.
Have you ever embarked on a Halloween quest where candy rained down from the sky, courtesy of a colossal dump truck? Probably not, unless you’ve experienced the spellbinding Downtown Wabash Trick-or-Treat Extravaganza. This bewitching event turns Downtown Wabash into a candy wonderland. It’s a tradition that leaves a sweet impression on its hometown, year after year.
Downtown Wabash Inc. collaborates closely with Wabash Trucking to create an unparalleled family experience in our beloved community. An avalanche of candy, literally A TON of it, will be cascading to the street as trick-or-treaters dressed up in their costumes, eagerly await to collect their sugary treasures. Will you snag one of the FIVE Gebhart Golden Tickets? That’s right, there are five chances at winning some “spooktacular” prizes.
Now, let’s get acquainted with the driving force behind this enchanting event: Wabash Trucking. They are a licensed and bonded full truckload logistics company based right here in Wabash, Indiana. Their mission is simple: to provide safe and reliable logistics services while upholding the highest standards of integrity and professionalism to protect customers, vendors and employees.
But how does a logistics company fit into the fabric of Downtown Wabash, let alone this candy-filled extravaganza? The answer is as straightforward as their “Go big or go home” motto. Wabash Trucking sought to give back to the community in a monumental way—think a whopping 2,000 pounds of candy cascading from the heavens, all while showcasing their innovative “Feed Me” roll-off dumpster design. Unbeknownst to them, no neighboring community had ever conjured such an elaborate spectacle, delivering a fresh, exhilarating experience to the masses. Now, in their fifth year, they’re poised to carry on the tradition of the 2,000-pound candy dump, much to the delight of Wabash residents.
How does this fit into the grand mission of Downtown Wabash Inc.? It’s a perfect match. Our vision for Downtown Wabash is a thriving hub of activity, day and night, and our mission is to be the driving force behind community and economic revitalization at the heart of Downtown Wabash. When an event like this brings nearly 4,000 people bustling into our vibrant downtown, we’re casting a radiant spotlight on local businesses and attractions, all conveniently within a strollable 2.5-mile radius. The majority of these event-goers are children, making it the perfect opportunity to introduce them to the enchanting wonders of their hometown through the grandest candy spectacle imaginable.
A colossal effort by an army of devoted community leaders makes this sweet spectacle possible. It’s Downtown Wabash, Inc. partnering with Wabash Trucking for the extravagant candy dump, Bachelor Creek hosting an epic costume contest across all age groups, Downtown Wabash businesses generously distributing candy outside their storefronts, local food trucks, talented photographers capturing the magic, dedicated community vendors, and our local first responders—all these incredible individuals come together to make this event free for the public. Their contributions, in the form of candy, volunteer hours, and resources, are priceless, and we extend our heartfelt gratitude to each of them.
The Downtown Wabash Trick-or-Treat Extravaganza is a beloved annual tradition taking place on October 28, from 5-7 p.m. (Rain Date: Sunday, October 29, from 2-4 p.m.) Gather your candy from the Wabash Trucking candy dump until supplies run out, then explore more businesses for additional sweet treats. Free parking and shuttle rides on Trolley No. 85 are available at Wabash County YMCA. Find more details on the Facebook event page.
The Downtown Wabash Trick-or-Treat Extravaganza is presented by Downtown Wabash, Inc. and Wabash Trucking. Downtown Wabash, Inc. is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to a downtown district that is vibrant every day and night. Additional sponsorship comes from Top Level Sponsor Bachelor Creek.
Bring the family to Downtown Wabash, Indiana for the ‘greatest spectacle in candy’ on Miami Street, presented by Downtown Wabash, Inc. & Wabash Trucking.
Returning for its 5th year, Wabash Trucking will bring one of its roll-off trucks to dump the candy for costumed trick-or-treaters. Candy will cascade to Miami St. promptly at 5 p.m. and trick-or-treaters can collect their candy until 7 p.m.
BE ON THE LOOKOUT for one of FIVE Gebhart Golden Tickets inside candy bars included in the truckload of candy with “spooktacularly sweet” prize packages!
Parking at the Wabash County YMCA or the Wabash County Museum is recommended. Free shuttle services will be provided by Trolley No. 85.
In the case of rain or inclement weather, Trick-or-Treat Extravaganza will be held on Sunday, Oct. 29 from 2-4 p.m. in Downtown Wabash, Indiana.
The City of Wabash’s trick-or-treat hours are to be determined.
The Downtown Wabash Trick-or-Treat Extravaganza is presented by Downtown Wabash, Inc. and Wabash Trucking. Additional sponsorship comes from Top Level Sponsor Bachelor Creek.
The Downtown Wabash Trick-or-Treat Extravaganza is made possible by Downtown Wabash, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit dedicated to a downtown district that is vibrant every day and night.
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